In an industry long defined by heavy equipment, manufacturing and field operations, a powerful shift is unfolding across the globe. Women are not only entering the heavy-duty machinery sector, but they are also leading teams, refining operations and driving business strategy forward.
At LiuGong, a global brand built on more than 60 years of market leadership, the commitment to fostering an inclusive, equal-opportunity workplace is evident in every department. From managing human capital across continents to closing deals on the front lines, four exceptional women share their unique journeys, daily experiences and inspiring vision for the future of heavy industry.
Emma Gikombo, HR and Administration Manager at LiuGong Machinery East Africa.
For Emma Gikombo, working for a multinational giant with a global footprint has provided an unparalleled platform for both personal and professional development. Navigating the intersection of East African and international business cultures, her role spans the full spectrum of human capital and office operations, from talent acquisition, performance management, and compensation to fixed asset security and administration.
Working in a male-dominated field requires Emma to prove her capabilities, a challenge that sharpened her resilience, confidence and consistency.
She firmly believes that women bring essential value to heavy-duty industries through high emotional intelligence, strategic problem-solving and communication skills that move companies forward.
Christelle Dodo, HR Co-ordinator at LiuGong Machinery West-Africa French speaking region.
With four years at LiuGong Machinery West-Africa French speaking region, Christelle Dodo thrives in a working environment where freedom of expression and team collaboration are core values. Her days are built around strategic development, people management and balancing professional aspirations with personal family responsibilities.
Christelle recognises that while administrative roles offer stability, women in field and technical positions face unique hurdles that demand robust corporate support. She actively encourages young women to ignore outdated stereotypes, trust their capabilities and step into the industry.
Christelle views the growth of female representation as an evolving journey, looking forward to a future where women across all regions are fully empowered to reach their potential.
Lesley-Ann Dipare, Administrative Supervisor at LiuGong Machinery South Africa.
Lesley-Ann Dipare brings dynamic energy and adaptability to her role as Administrative Supervisor at LiuGong South Africa. Over her four-year tenure, she has embraced the fast-paced, ever-changing demands of an office where every day brings fresh challenges and unique opportunities.
Lesley-Ann highlights that the heavy machinery sector extends far beyond physical equipment, offering rich career paths in sales, customer relations and administration where diverse perspectives lead to better solutions.
Grounded in the trust and backing provided to her by LiuGong, she continues to push herself toward excellence while advocating for expanded opportunities for young women.
Tricia Liu, Salesperson at LiuGong Machinery South Africa.
Operating directly on the commercial side of the business, Tricia Liu acts as a vital link between local dealers and internal departments. In sales, an area where clients can occasionally underestimate female practitioners, Tricia meets scepticism with deep product knowledge, extra preparation and unwavering professionalism.
She values LiuGong’s commitment to providing equal training, respectful working environments and transparent promotion paths for all employees regardless of gender.
Her message to women eyeing a career in heavy machinery is direct and empowering: do not be intimidated by stereotypes, step forward with confidence and go for it.
The experiences of Emma, Christelle, Lesley-Ann and Tricia demonstrate that diversity in leadership makes a company stronger, more adaptable and more innovative.
Described by their colleagues as resilient, caring, tough and highly capable, the women of LiuGong are actively breaking down barriers and redefining what success looks like in heavy machinery.
As LiuGong continues its global journey, these leaders remain living proof that with confidence, competence and equal opportunity, women do not just belong in this industry; they thrive in it.
